Installing an aftermarket radio just got easier.
Pioneer Electronics
This story is part of CES, where our editors will present the latest news and the hottest gadgets from CES 2021 entirely virtual.
Pioneer’s NEX family of panel receivers takes modularity to the next level in CES 2021 this week with the debut of the DMH-WC5700NEX, which separates the LCD touchscreen from the main main unit for more flexible installation in modern cars.
After years of tinkering and installing the car stereo systems, I assume there will be space behind the vehicle panel for installing the standard DIN (or double DIN) receiver. But as the cabin technology integrates better with new cars, today’s automakers do not always see the need to make room for a replacement stereo. This left automotive audio enthusiasts without an obvious upgrade path, forcing Pioneer to be creative with the next modular iteration of its NEX receiver family.
The DMH-WC5700NEX – damn, those model numbers are getting difficult to handle – has a 6.8-inch capacitive LCD touch screen that is mounted on the panel with a finishing kit like any other automotive sound receiver. It’s almost as thick as a sturdy tablet – which allows easy installation on vehicles that don’t accept a traditional replacement receiver on the dashboard, for example, the new Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra.
It is much simpler than you think.
Pioneer Electronics
The main control unit connects to the touchscreen with a single cable and can be hidden at the bottom of the panel, on the center console, under a seat or wherever there is space. Depending on how far you plan to mount the main box, you may need to purchase a separate extension cable.
As a modern NEX receiver, the DMH-WC5700NEX offers all the features we expect from this strain. This includes high-fidelity, wireless and wired audio playback Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, Amazon Alexa, HD radio tuning and a flexible and customizable interface. The unit can also be upgraded with an additional SirusXM satellite radio tuner and rear camera system.
Pricing and availability have not yet been announced, so stay tuned for more details and updates as they arise. Pioneer has also launched a new and ridiculously compact micro-subwoofer for cars at CES, so maybe to check it out in the meantime.